For the past weeks, it has been difficult to do anything and even move around because there has been no fuel in most parts of the country.

When the fuel shortage was first reported, as usual, it was dismissed by Mera and others. It was as if those raising alarm were just mere disgruntled and hate President Lazarus Chakwera’s government.

Well, those who truly love this country and wish this government well raise alarm. Often such alarm comes from a place love and not hatred. This, however, is not cause for worry. Malawians should be worried that every time there is a crisis, their President tends to care less about their suffering.

At the height of Tropical Cyclone Freddy, the President was in far away land taking all the time he could get before he returned. Again, as the long queues for fuel snake through the roads of Malawi, the President waved goodbye to Malawians with little care about what was going on.

He is a president that is indifferent to the suffering of Malawians. He cares less as long his need to gallivant around the world is fulfilled.

 Is this what he has been touting as servant leadership?

The trip to the UK could have been easily turned down. Of course it is important to associate and fellowship with others but that shouldn’t be the priority when there is a crisis back home. A good leader shares in the suffering of their people. It is not enough to say it; one has to show that they care.

Malawians have been spending nights at filling stations without much joy. Days are being spent chasing after fuel tankers with little time on work. This is retrogressive and has the potential to slow down the already snail-pace development.

The argument that at such gatherings the President courts potential investors is a tired argument. The President has been more in the skies than on land but how many investors have been in the country? You guess is as good as mine.

Government needs urgent and lasting solution to the fuel crisis. It is becoming worryingly so often that it’s proving tough for people to properly plan their work.

And Mr. President, stop running away from problems. While you will be have your English breakfast, many Malawians will be spending days and nights at petrol stations. Show some compassion.

The post Runaway President first appeared on The Nation Online.